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[Ototoxicity induced by clarithromycin]
W Kolkman1, J H M Groeneveld, H J C M Baur
1Medisch Centrum Haaglanden, locatie Westeinde, Postbus 432, 2501 CK Den Haag.
Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde
|October 3, 2002
Summary
This study reports a case of hearing loss caused by the antibiotic clarithromycin. The hearing impairment was reversible and dose-dependent, suggesting clarithromycin-induced ototoxicity.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Pharmacology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Atypical pulmonary tuberculosis requires effective antibiotic treatment.
- Macrolide antibiotics like clarithromycin are used for tuberculosis.
- Drug-induced ototoxicity is a potential adverse effect of various medications.
Observation:
- A 76-year-old male patient experienced progressive bilateral hearing loss.
- Hearing loss onset occurred four days after initiating high-dose clarithromycin therapy.
- Symptoms improved upon discontinuation and worsened with re-exposure.
Findings:
- The patient's hearing loss demonstrated a clear dose-dependent relationship with clarithromycin.
- Both subjective and objective hearing improvements were noted after dose reduction.
- Full hearing recovery was achieved only after permanent cessation of clarithromycin.
Implications:
- This case highlights clarithromycin as a potential cause of ototoxicity.
- Clinicians should monitor for hearing changes in patients on clarithromycin.
- Further research may be warranted to elucidate the mechanisms of clarithromycin-induced ototoxicity.